Vera Wang
Can’t Afford Designer Fashion? Get Them on Your Cell
Microsoft Windows just released five cellphone wallpaper themes, available for free at Windows Marketplace, from some of fashions top designers. Themes are available from Diane von Furstenberg, Vera Wang, Isaac Mizrahi, Rock & Republic, and Ron Arad (we like DVF the best).
The designer themes are available to all Windows phone users with Windows Mobile 6.5 devices which will be available on October 6, and can be downloaded for free from Windows Marketplace for Mobile beginning the same date.
Kohls.com: Site Review
Oh, Kohl’s. We always have such high hopes for you, as you add designer lines (Vera Wang, Dana Buchman) and what should be fun and interesting brands and collections (Daisy Fuentes and Elle). And yet, we end up coming away either disappointed or with an overwhelming sense of “eh”. Still, we’ve seen glimpses of good stuff (shoes and handbags aren’t too bad, actually) and so we keep hoping. One way to keep tabs? Stop by Kohls.com and see what’s new—maybe online shopping is the way to go ...
Our Review: Kohl’s site design leaves us feeling about the same way as the retailer in general—it’s not remarkable, but not exactly terrible either. All we really expect from a major mid-level retailer’s website is pretty much what we get here—highlighted daily sales and tabs for each major category (women’s, men’s, you know the drill). Sort by item, brand, sale, etc.
Daily deal items and frequent shipping deals (sometimes requiring a coupon code) add value to shopping online here—and you can sign up for e-mail alerts to have the latest deals sent directly to you—but what it boils down to is that the offerings are the same. We dig the Candies shoes and the Dana Buchman accessories, and it’s handy to be able to pick up kids’ clothing and household items while you shop for your summer handbag. But we can’t help but feel like the whole thing could just be better. Period.
The Verdict: Nay. Again, not terrible, but nothing interesting enough to make us clamor to shop here.
Fashion Advice: Budget Wedding Dresses
Dear Budget Fashionista,
I am wondering if you have any advice on finding a couture wedding gown on consignment/resale or at an otherwise great price. I refuse to believe that I have to pay $3,000 for a fab gown.
Answer: Here’s some places to definitely check out—
- Last Call Neiman Marcus. LC Neiman Marcus often carries a selection of gowns from major designers like Vera Wang
, Reem Acra, etc. for a fraction of the cost. A friend got a Vera Wang
- Filene’s Basement. They have an annual bridal gown sale that is one of the most hotly anticipated wedding-related events of the shopping season. You’ll find deals from major bridal designers (although most things are a size 10 and below). Head to www.filenesbasement.com for locations and dates for the event.
- eBay. I know it sounds crazy, but you can find great high end wedding dresses online at eBay.com. Just do a search for Vera Wang, Carolina Herrera, etc and see what comes up. Many are brand and are being sold by women who weren’t able to use them for some reason (left at the altar?).
Designer Dictionary: Guide to Top Desgners N-Z
Prada, Miuccia
Pronunciation: Mee-U- cha Pra-dah
Prada was originally founded as a leather goods shop by Mario Prada in 1913. But, his daughter, Miuccia Prada, with the help of her husband, is really the one responsible for turning Prada into a fashion powerhouse in the 80’s. Miuccia’s innovative designs, such as the nylon backpack, became an infamous fashion symbols of the 90’s, with starlets and socialites alike, carrying the coveted ‘it’ bag. Miuccia’s designs have continued to be ground-breaking yet practical—no wonder the devil is said to have worn Prada.
Posen, Zac
Pronunciation: Zak Poo-zen
This young fashion designer started his collection at the tender age of 16 and got his big break when Demi Moore was photographed wearing his designs while hanging out with Aston Kutchner. With the extensive fashion knowledge and business skills he gained from his internships at The Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute and Nicole Miller, he was able to create a unique and creative line for himself with funding from Sean “Puffy” Combs. Socialites, supermodels, and celebs all love his angular styles and 1940’s Hollywood inspired designs.
*Proenza Schouler
Pronunciation:pro-en-za skool-er
Former lover and design partners, Lazaro Hernandez and Jack McCollough, created the modern luxury label, Proenza Schouler (combination of their mother’s maiden names), as students at New York’s Parsons School of Design. After presenting their graduate thesis to great acclaim, buyers from Barney’s New York quickly bought their whole line. Their line offers an edgy, youthful take on high-end fashion and is worn by fashion forward Hollywood stars like Demi Moore. The duo won CFDA’s Perry Ellis Award for new talent in 2003
Pucci, Emilio
Pronunciation: E-MEE-lee-o POH-chee
The socialite, Italian skier and designer Emilio Pucci was known for his use of completely unique and infamous prints during the sixties. The brand is synonymous with bold, brightly colored patterns with a kaleidoscopic psychedelic feel.Think Austin Powers.
Reese, Tracy
Pronunciation: TRAY- cee Ree-s
Favored by celebs like Mira Sorvino and Carla Gallo, designer Tracy Reese continues to gain prominence in the fashion world. With intense background training from Martine Sitbon and Perry Ellis, her styles today reflect the elegance of women with a hint of tradition and vintage-inspiration. She freely uses colors and embellishments like beading and sequins in her designs.
Saint Laurent, Yves
Pronunciation: EEV San-LAWRON
Yves Saint Laurent breathed new life onto the French fashion scene in the 60’s. At the age of 21, he was the youngest designer to ever head the house of Dior. YSL’s iconic couture creations include the women’s tuxedo (the memorable Le Smoking), the ultra-chic trench coat, peacoat, shirt-dress and the safari-chic trend. He was also one of the very first designers to use black models in his shows. In 1983, he was the first living designer to be honored with a solo exhibition at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Schiaparelli, Elsa
Pronunciation: EL-sa She-a-pa-REHL-lee
Elsa Schiaparelli, along with rival Coco Chanel, dominated the women’s fashion scene in the early part of the twentieth century. It was Schiaparelli who designed the famous pink suit Jackie (Bouvier) Kennedy (Onasis) wore the day her husband, President John F. Kennedy, was assassinated. She was also of the surrealist camp with the likes of Salvador Dali, and this influence can be seen in her designs, especially in her trompe-l’oeil sweaters. Her collections were recently exhibited at the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
Sui, Anna
Pronunciation: AN-na SOO-ee
Originally from Michigan, Sui is known for her “head-to-toe” looks, unique ability to counter bright colors with black and liberal usage of rich fabrics. The NewYork Times calls Sui a designer who “never panders” and her styles continue to set trends and inspire other designers all around the world.
* Thakoon Panichgul
Pronuciation: Ta-koon Pa-neech-gool
Thakoon’s designs are eccentric yet charming, which is precisely why he’s often a Michelle Obama pick. This former fashion editor puts original spins on ordinary pieces—i.e. a knee-length cocktail design with sequins streaked across haphazardly. Last year, Thakoon’s line at Target flew off the shelves as quickly as they were put on them.
Ungaro, Emanuel
Pronunciation: Eh-MAHN-wayl Oon-GAH-ro
In the beginning, Italian born designer Emanuel Ungaro found himself struggling for appreciation and even acceptance in the fashion world. Today, his works continue to set trends for other designers. His clothing line is put together to “remind women that they are the joy of every man.”
Versace, Gianni
Pronunciation : Gee-a-nee Verr-sa-chay
The late Italian designer, Gianni Versace, found his namesake label in 1978. Although the label is most known for its mix of “grandiose sexiness” and “decadent European-inspired styles” (remember the infamous J. Lo dress?), few remember that the collection first started as a menswear line. Versace is now led by Gianni’s sister, Donnatella, who’s often parodied on Saturday Night Live. It also wins the award as “the designer mentioned most in corny hip-hop songs”.
Von Furstenberg, Diane
Pronunciation : DY-an Von FUR-sten-berg
Diane Von Furstenberg is known for turning the knit wrap dress into a closet staple. The dress, which enhances the feminine body by accentuating its curves, is sported by celebs like Kirsten Dunst and Cindy Crawford. If you can’t afford the original wrap dress, try versions from Rampage, Max Studio, or Anne Klein.
Wang, Alexander
Pronunciation: Alex-an-dur Way-ng
The Parsons’ dropout showed the high-end design school that he could make it even without their stamp of approval. Alexander Wang’s first collection, launched in 2007, was edgy, cool and a little bit grungy. Impeccable cashmere sweaters, shrunken vests and distressed jeans make up an Alexander Wang special and his list of fans include model and muse Erin Wasson.
**Wang, Vera
Pronunciation : Veer- ra Way-ng
This former Vogue senior fashion editor and New York City native, launched her first bridal collection in 1990. Since then, her name has become synonymous with bridal and evening glamour. Her collection now includes footwear, fragrance, eyewear and home furnishings.
Wu, Jason
Pronunciation: Jay-son Wu
The twenty-six-year old became a household name when First Lady, Michelle Obama, chose the newbie designer’s white chiffon dress for the inauguration ball. Prior to becoming the premiere designer of choice by the First Lady, Wu was the creative director for a line of designer dolls called ‘Fashion Royalty’, sold at F.A.O Schwartz. He started his own fashion label in 2006 and was recognized by Vogue editor, Anna Wintour, as a promising new talent. Wu’s designs are distinctly feminine and polished. His teacup skirts, floral dresses and dainty jackets create nostalgia of an earlier era while keeping it decidedly modern. No wonder the First Lady was bowled over by his clothes.
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Dress With Youthful Sophistication, Simply Vera Wang for Kohl’s, Etsy Finds, Review Kiehl’s Mascar
A mascara with conditioning benefits? We’re all ears - check out the full length review of Kiehl’s new Marvelous Mineral Mascara at Second City Style.
Omiru’s outfits are always bang on trend; learn how to experiment with yummy new sophisticated details, while remaining true to your wardrobe.
Photos for the new Simply Vera Wang for Kohl’s have hit the web, and they’re pretty dang enticing. FabSugar has pictures of everything, and reviews the line.
End of Fashion Week? Designers Cancel Shows
What: Several top designers, including Carmen Marc Valvo, Betsey Johnson, and Vera Wang are canceling their shows for New York’s Fall 2009 Fashion Week.
What They Say: Wall Street Journal’s Heard on the Runway Blog quoting an expert regarding the Valvo cancellation : “We didn’t know if we would have the audience we felt we needed to justify the cost of putting on that show — stores are cutting back on sending buyers to the shows, there’s less and less press coming,” says Mr. Pulice, who noted that the designer’s September fashion show drew 25% fewer retail buyers and press than usual. “We didn’t feel it was worth the effort that was going to go into it.”
What I Say: Fashion Week is going back to what it was prior to the 80s’- intimate showings in the designers showroom. As one of the first fashion bloggers to attend fashion week and having thrown a major fashion week party, I can tell you that fashion week is really not about the fashion. It’s mostly about being seen and seeing celebrities (many of whom are paid up to $25,000+ to attend a 15 minute show). A good 15-20% (may be more??) of those attending do not work for any particular press outlet or store and those that do find their travel budgets slashed to the point they would rather stay in their offices and write up their pieces via the photos on Style.com.
And with the economy in the tubers, is Fashion Week even relevant?
Shipping for 99 Cents an Item: Kohls.com
What: Instead of paying the same rate of shipping whether or not you buy one item or ten, Kohl’s is offering a shipping rate of 99 cents per item.
What We Say: We like Kohl’s thinking behind this. We hate it when we’re slapped with a 5 dollar shipping charge no matter what we purchase, and this is a fairer and cheaper way to do our shopping online. Kohl’s is a great discount department store with a large selection for every member of the family. With their Simply Vera by Vera Wang collection, we get designer clothes for low prices, too.
Check out our picks:
This Simply Vera shirred dress is very versatile and pretty. Dress it up with accessories and heels or dress it down with flip flops. On sale for $51.00.
We can’t get enough of floral—check out this gorgeous Floral Godet Skirt. Now only $19.99.
Pictured: This ultra-feminine Daisy Fuentes Floral Dress is romantic and flirty. Picture it with a straw hat and espadrilles. Now $37.80.
Dresses on Sale at Bluefly
What: Dresses by Vera Wang, Tart, C+C California and many other designers are up to 50% off right now on Bluefly.
What We Say: We think it’s time for us to invest in a classic, gorgeous dress that we can wear for years without getting bored. Or maybe that’s just the influence of looking through pages of pretty dresses and imagining ourselves wearing them. In any case, 40% is a good chunk of the price, and some of these dresses are knocked down to below 100 bucks. Wear these dresses to dinners, graduations, outdoor weddings…this summer, and the next.
Check out our choices:
This strapless Vera Wang dress transcends fads—it’s simple and classy. Pair with a white floppy hat and people will think you’re going to a ritzy country club. Now $209.99, was $430.00
This little black dress by C+C California is cinched at the waist and the rouching over the bodice creates texture. Now only $83.00, down from $138.00.
Pictured: This Cynthia Steffe dress is very cheerful and made with silk satin—you can’t help but smile at the colorful waves. Now $198.00, was $330.00.
Vera Wang’s Line Debuts at Kohls Department Store this Wednesday, September 9th
Correction: The line will appear September 9th. Sorry!
According to retail sources, Vera Wang’s new “masstige” (mass market + prestige) line, Simply Vera by Vera Wang, will debut September 9th at select Kohls Department stores nationwide. You’ll also be able to purchase select pieces online at Kohls.com
Vera Wang Comes to Kohl’s Department Stores
Vera Wang will premiere a fashion and lifestyle brand titled “Very Vera” at
Kohl’s department stores in 2007. Vera joins a long, looong, list of designers who realize that you make more money selling to average folks than selling to rich folks. I wonder if Ms. Wang, who as teen flew to Paris each season with her mom to buy her wardrobe, has ever set foot in a
Kohl’s? I mean, I love her personal style and the glamour of her lines, but I’ll be interested to see if she is able to translate this to the very real women who shop at Kohl’s.
Note: I wrote about this in December of 2005.
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